DEMARCHE: SUPPORT FOR THE UNGA THIRD COMMITTEE

C O N F I D E N T I A L ANKARA 007184 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/20/2013 TAGS: PHUM PREL IR TU SUBJECT: DEMARCHE: SUPPORT FOR THE UNGA THIRD COMMITTEE IRAN RESOLUTION REF: A. STATE 317277 ¶B. STATE 318063 (U) Classified by Political Counselor John Kunstadter, E.O. 12958, reasons 1.5 (b) and (d). ¶1. (U) We delivered ref B demarche and, subsequently, Canadian draft resolution November 18 to Turkish MFA South Asia Department Head Soner. ¶2. (U) After reviewing the draft and citing "established practice that Turkey does not co-sponsor or vote in favor of resolutions against neighboring countries," Soner told us the GOT plans to abstain. In explaining the decision, Soner declared that Turkey's best option is to abstain. He expressed hope that Turkey's position will be helpful to the U.S. delegation at the UNGA Third Committee session at least at a minimum level. ¶3. (C) Discussing Turkish-Iranian relations in general, Soner observed that Iran should be watched seriously because of its nuclear technology expertise, its avowed policy to develop a nuclear bomb and its ability to "function intelligently in international relations." He cited Iran's violation of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty as another reason for Turkey's concern. Finally, Soner averred that the public statements of Turkish-Iranian rapprochement and friendship had all been initiated by Iran, not Turkey. DEUTSCH